A license for alterations is a legal document that outlines the conditions upon which a flat owner is allowed to carry out alterations.

This is drawn up by the freeholder’s solicitor at the leaseholder’s expense and may require expert input to set technical specifications around the works.

A licence will almost certainly be required where the lease contains provisions restricting the leaseholder from carrying out alterations without the landlord’s consent. If the lease is silent on the question of alterations, then the tenant may be free to carry out the alterations.

The aim of the Licence is to record all works that alter the flat’s demise. Licences typically include the following information:

• The type of alterations that are permitted
• The timeframe in which the alterations must be completed
• The responsibilities of the leaseholder and the freeholder during and after the project
• The conditions under which the alterations can be carried out
• Any restrictions or limitations on the alterations
• An undertaking that all works will be carried out in compliance with all relevant statutes planning consent, by-laws, and building regulations and in accordance with good working practices.

The tenant will be responsible for initiating the process and setting out the scope of works, design drawings, structural drawings, building services drawings and specifications.

The complexity of the works will determine whether the landlord decides to appoint his own professional team to review and approve any such designs, calculations or specifications put forward by the tenant at the tenant’s costs.

We can advise you whether you require a licence in advance of planned works to your flat and where you do, we can act on your behalf in negotiations around the core terms of the licence with the freeholder’s solicitor.

Please get in touch with us if you think that you might require assistance with a licence for alterations at mail@anthonygold.co.uk or on 02079 404 000.